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Note 6 - Construction Joint Ventures (Detail) - Summary of noncontrolling venture partner income: (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | 12 Months Ended
--- | ---
Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2010
Total combined: |  |  |
Revenues | $ 630,507 | $ 501,156 | $ 459,893
Income before tax | 17,133 | (51,716) |
Corporate Joint Venture [Member] |  |  |
Total combined: |  |  |
Revenues | 438,756 | 440,085 | 302,289
Income before tax | 95,765 | 46,683 | 24,573
Sterling’s noncontrolling interest: |  |  |
Share of revenues | 82,519 | 62,763 | 37,684
Share of income before tax | $ 12,424 | $ 6,417 | $ 3,018

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